CALIFORNIA: The Golden Bears appear to be a team that could surprise people. Their offense should be solid as they are getting back junior QB Zach Maynard (2,990 pass yds, 17 TD, 12 INT), RB Isi Sofele (1,322 rush yds, 5.2 YPC, 10 TD) and WR Keenan Allen (98 rec, 1,343 yards, 6 TD). This team will be able to put up a lot points, especially considering Maynard has improved during the spring. California fans should also be excited about the fact that the team's strong recent defensive recruiting classes should now start to pay dividends. The Bears held three Pac-12 opponents to 10 points or less last season, and they led the conference in total defense (333 total YPG).

WASHINGTON ST: The Mike Leach era is under way at Washington State, and his first important move as head coach will be naming QB Jeff Tuel the starter. Tuel, who was limited to just two games after breaking his collarbone, made a very strong first impression this spring and should be ready to break out in 2012. The Cougars get back leading rusher Rickey Galvin (602 rush yds, 5 TD) as well as stud WR Marquess Wilson (1,388 rec yds, 12 TD). This offense should be potent and the defense looks promising as well. Leach has stirred things up from last year and the changes should benefit an aggressive group of linebackers, featuring LB Travis Long, who love to get after the quarterback.